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Botox® Serums vs. Botox® Injections: What Really Works?

Woman receiving Botox treatment at the IAPAM's Aesthetic Medicine Symposium

“Botox® in a bottle” is a popular term in the skincare market, and serums are said to achieve the same result as Botox® injections—relaxing fine lines and wrinkles without the risk of needles. 

Demand is increasing, with the global market for Botox® serums reaching $430 million in 2024 and expanding at a 10.5% CAGR through 2030. [1]

But how do such serums compare to clinically administered Botox® injections? Do they form a proper alternative, or do they serve a different purpose altogether? 

In this article, we will break down the science behind both of these options, helping Certified Aesthetic Providers™ (CAP) and patients understand what truly works in aesthetic medicine.

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What is Botox®?

Botox® is a popular neuromodulator that is obtained from Botulinum toxin type A. It has a temporary inhibitory action on nerve impulses to muscles so that they are unable to contract. 

It relaxes wrinkles that are the result of repetitive facial expressions like frowning or squinting.

Botox® was initially approved by the FDA in 1989 for the treatment of certain medical issues like strabismus (crossed eyes) and blepharospasm (eyelid twitching that cannot be controlled). [2] 

In 2002, it was the first botulinum toxin to be approved for cosmetic use. 

Botox® has been widely used since then to treat forehead lines, crow’s feet, and other dynamic wrinkles.

What Are Botox Serums?

Botox® serums are facial skin care products that claim to diminish wrinkles by replicating the action of botulinum toxin injections. 

Unlike injectables, however, they do not have any botulinum toxin or directly affect muscle action. 

They employ peptides, hydrators, and antioxidants to enhance skin quality and relax fine lines instead.

Key Ingredients in Botox Serums

Most Botox® serums use peptides to improve the look of the skin. They are peptides that improve hydration, antioxidants, etc., but they do not work the same way as Botox® injections.

  • Peptides – “Botox®-like” but Much Weaker
Peptides are short amino acid chains that direct the skin to create collagen or, to a lesser degree, relax muscles. Some of the most popular ones are:
  • Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8): Argireline has been referred to as “topical Botox®” because it works to relax facial tension by suppressing the release of neurotransmitters. [3] It is not absorbed deeply enough, though, to stop muscle contractions like injectable Botox®.
  • Snap-8: Another peptide that targets expression lines, whose impact is weak and short-lived. [4]
  • Syn-Ake: A synthetic peptide that mimics the effect of snake venom, that supposedly relaxes facial muscles. Again, its ability to penetrate deep within the skin is limited.

Curious how well Botox®-like serums stack up? This clinical study explores the effects of Argireline after 4 weeks of use.

  • Hydration & Collagen Boosters
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Draws moisture into the skin to make lines thinner but has no effect on muscle movement.
  • Collagen-boosting ingredients (Peptides, Retinol, Vitamin C): Tighten skin eventually but have no immediate wrinkle-relaxing effect.
  • Antioxidants for Skin Protection
  • Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Green Tea Extract: Prevent environmental damage and repair the skin but do not relax muscles.

How Botox Serums Claim to Work

Numerous Botox® serums are sold as “needle-free alternatives” that:

  • Relax facial muscles to stop wrinkles from becoming deeper
  • Increase collagen production to enhance skin elasticity
  • Hydrate and smooth the skin for a youthful appearance

Some clinical studies indicate that peptides such as Argireline will reduce facial muscle movement slightly, resulting in a mild smoothing effect. 

These results are temporary, surface-level, and much less potent than Botox® injections.

Botox® vs. Topical Botox®

Most skincare products are labeled as “topical Botox®”, but they don’t function like injectables. 

Botox® injections block nerve signals, stopping muscle contractions that cause wrinkles. 

Topical serums such as Argireline, on the other hand, only affect the surface of the skin, providing light relaxation but no profound muscle effect.

Botox® is FDA-approved for use as a wrinkle treatment, whereas topical serums are not. [5] 

They are likely to provide some hydration and mild wrinkle prevention but are not a substitute for injectables.

Argireline/Olavita Serum vs. Botox®

Argireline is a popular peptide commonly referred to as “topical Botox®” due to its supposed ability to relax facial muscles. 

Olavita Serum is a well-known skincare product that contains peptides such as Argireline and other hydrating agents.

  • Botox® injections halt muscle contraction at a deep level, delivering dramatic wrinkle reduction.
  • Argireline & Olavita serums function on the surface, delivering subtle smoothing but no enduring muscle relaxation.

Such serums can prevent fine lines or be added to Botox® effects, but they cannot substitute injections for deep wrinkles. [6]

How Injectable Botulinum Toxins Work

When injected into treated areas, botulinum toxin prevents the release of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that instructs muscles to contract. 

With less contraction, wrinkles and lines diminish over time. The result is temporary, between 3 and 6 months, depending on the product applied and personal circumstances.

Popular Botulinum Toxin Brands

There are several FDA-approved injectable botulinum toxins with minor differences in formulation and behavior:
  • Botox® – The most popular brand, used extensively for both medical and cosmetic treatments.
  • Dysport® – Spreads slightly more than Botox, so it is a good choice for larger areas of treatment.
  • Xeomin® – A “naked” version of botulinum toxin, i.e., it contains no additives, minimizing the risk of resistance. [7]
  • Daxxify® – A newer alternative that lasts longer than standard Botox, usually up to 6 months or more.

Botox® Serums vs. Botox® Injections: Key Differences

Although both Botox® injection and Botox serum are sold for wrinkle reduction, they work in very different ways. Here is how they compare:

  • Botox® Injection
  • Botox Serums
Feature Botox® InjectionBotox Serums
Feature
MechanismBlocks nerve signals to prevent muscle contractions.Works on the skin’s surface, may slightly relax muscles.
EffectivenessClinically proven, long-lasting (3-6 months).Temporary, mild effects with limited penetration.
Onset Time3-7 days for visible results.Immediate hydration, but wrinkle reduction takes weeks.
Longevity3-6 months per treatment.Requires daily application to maintain effects.
ApplicationMedical procedures by licensed professionals.Over-the-counter, applied at home.
Side EffectsTemporary bruising, swelling, or headaches.Mild irritation, potential allergic reactions.
Buy NowBuy Now

Mechanism

  • Botox® Injection: Blocks nerve signals to prevent muscle contractions.
  • Botox Serums: Works on the skin’s surface, may slightly relax muscles.

Effectiveness

  • Botox® Injection: Clinically proven, long-lasting (3–6 months).
  • Botox Serums: Temporary, mild effects with limited penetration.

Onset Time

  • Botox® Injection: 3–7 days for visible results.
  • Botox Serums: Immediate hydration, but wrinkle reduction takes weeks.

Longevity

  • Botox® Injection: 3–6 months per treatment.
  • Botox Serums: Requires daily application to maintain effects.

Application

  • Botox® Injection: Medical procedures by licensed professionals.
  • Botox Serums: Over-the-counter, applied at home.

Side Effects

  • Botox® Injection: Temporary bruising, swelling, or headaches.
  • Botox Serums: Mild irritation, potential allergic reactions.

Clinical Evidence: Do Botox® Serums Really Work?

Botox injections have been proven clinically to erase wrinkles by relaxing the muscles beneath the skin. 

A number of studies show that botulinum toxin injections are able to reduce wrinkle depth by 80–90% in treated areas.

Botox serums, on the other hand, contain peptides like Argireline that claim to mimic Botox action by relaxing the facial muscles.

Their activity is restricted to muscle movement. According to clinical trials, Botox serums can improve skin texture and hydration by 10–20%, but not by directly softening wrinkles like injections do.

A review of the literature on botulinum toxin (Botox A) also confirms that it is safe, effective, and well-researched to reduce wrinkles. [8] 

It accomplishes this by paralyzing the local muscles between 24 hours and two weeks post-injection. 

The highest cosmetic dose is around 20 units, with the effects lasting a maximum of six months.

When to Choose Botox® Injections Over Serums

Deep wrinkles and dynamic lines like those on the forehead or eyes (crow’s feet) are best treated with Botox® injections. 

They are caused by habitual facial expressions, and only injectables can temporarily weaken the involved muscles.

For long-term anti-aging treatment patients, Botox® injections are dramatic, clinically proven, and last three to six months. 

Since they are administered by certified medical providers, the treatment is safe, precise, and effective, eliminating the risk of abnormal results or wastage of the product.

When Are Botox® Serums a Good Option?

Botox serums work best for mild wrinkles and prevention. They can help smooth fine lines and hydrate the skin and are best for younger individuals or those who want to stop wrinkle development. 

For those who are afraid of needles or are not yet ready for injectables, serums are a good non-invasive option.

Botox® Injections: Pros and Cons

Pros
Cons
Clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 80-90%.
Requires administration by a licensed
professional.
Long-lasting results (3-6 months per session).
Higher upfront cost compared to serums.
Targets dynamic wrinkles (forehead lines,
crow’s feet, frown lines).
Potential side effects: bruising, swelling,
headaches, or rare eyelid drooping.
Quick procedure (10-20 minutes).
Results take 3-7 days to appear fully.
FDA-approved for cosmetic and medical use.

Pros

  • Clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 80-90%.
  • Long-lasting results (3-6 months per session).
  • Targets dynamic wrinkles (forehead lines, crow’s feet, frown lines).
  • Quick procedure (10-20 minutes).
  • FDA-approved for cosmetic and medical use.

Cons

  • Requires administration by a licensed professional.
  • Higher upfront cost compared to serums.
  • Potential side effects: bruising, swelling, headaches, or rare eyelid drooping.
  • Results take 3-7 days to appear fully.

Botox Serums: Pros and Cons

Pros
Cons
Non-invasive—applied topically with no needles.
Not clinically proven to block muscle
movement like Botox.
Can hydrate, improve skin texture, and provide
mild smoothing.
Effects are temporary and require daily use.
Contains peptides (Argireline, Snap-8) that may offer
a mild muscle-relaxing effect.
Results are subtle, and best for prevention
rather than deep wrinkle treatment.
Generally safe with few side effects
(mild irritation possible).
No FDA approval for wrinkle reduction.
Affordable compared to injectables.

Pros

  • Non-invasive—applied topically with no needles.
  • Can hydrate, improve skin texture, and provide
    mild smoothing.
  • Contains peptides (Argireline, Snap-8) that may offer.
  • Generally safe with few side effects (mild irritation possible). a mild muscle-relaxing effect.
  • Affordable compared to injectables.

Cons

  • Not clinically proven to block muscle movement like Botox®.
  • Effects are temporary and require daily use.
  • Results are subtle, and best for prevention rather than deep wrinkle treatment.
  • No FDA approval for wrinkle reduction.

Why a Certified Aesthetic Provider™ (CAP) is Important

Botox® injections are medical treatments, not cosmetic procedures. They need to be done with proper training, skill, and knowledge to produce safe, effective, and natural-looking results. 

Done improperly, Botox® can cause droopy eyelids, asymmetrical facial expressions, or an unnatural, frozen appearance.

A certified aesthetic practitioner develops a customized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s facial anatomy, muscle activity, and desired results. 

This helps to ensure that results appear subtle and harmonious, not overdone.

Conclusion: What Really Works?

Botox® injections are still the gold standard for wrinkle reduction. Clinically tested and FDA-approved, they work under the skin to relax muscles, erasing dynamic wrinkles for long-term, predictable results.

Botox serums, although useful for hydration and light skin smoothing, are not penetrating enough to substitute injectables. 

They may be used to enhance treatments but cannot prevent muscle movement as with Botox.

For medical professionals, adequate training is necessary to provide safe, effective outcomes. 

At our training facility, we provide medical professionals with hands-on training in injectables and dermal fillers, providing safe, natural-looking outcomes through expert training.

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References:

1. Virtue Market Research. “Botox Serum Market | Size, Share, Growth | 2025 – 2030.” Virtue Market Research, 2025, virtuemarketresearch.com/report/botox-serum-market. 
2. Scott, Alan B., et al. “Treatment of Strabismus and Blepharospasm with Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA): Development, Insights, and Impact.” Medicine, vol. 102, no. Suppl, 1 July 2023, p. e32374, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10374181/
3. Olsson, Sofia Eva, et al. “Public Interest in Acetyl Hexapeptide-8: Longitudinal Analysis.” JMIR Dermatology, vol. 7, 20 Feb. 2024, p. e54217, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38376906/, https://doi.org/10.2196/54217.
4. Errante, Fosca, et al. “Cosmeceutical Peptides in the Framework of Sustainable Wellness Economy.” Frontiers in Chemistry, vol. 8, 30 Oct. 2020, https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2020.572923. Accessed 2 Aug. 2021.
5. Nutrition, Center for Food Safety and Applied. “Wrinkle Treatments and Other Anti-Aging Products.” FDA, 4 Feb. 2020, www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/wrinkle-treatments-and-other-anti-aging-products.
6. Henseler, Helga. “Investigating the Effects of Argireline in a Skin Serum Containing Hyaluronic Acids on Skin Surface Wrinkles Using the Visia® Complexion Analysis Camera System for Objective Skin Analysis.” PubMed, vol. 12, 1 Jan. 2023, pp. Doc09–Doc09, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10665711/
7. “Xeomin vs. Botox, and What to Know about Both.” Cleveland Clinic, health.clevelandclinic.org/xeomin-vs-botox.
Satriyasa, Bagus Komang. “Botulinum Toxin (Botox) a for Reducing the Appearance of Facial Wrinkles: A Literature Review of Clinical Use and Pharmacological Aspect.” Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, vol. Volume 12, no. 12, Apr. 2019, pp. 223–228, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6489637/, https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s202919.